Energy-Saving Nudges in Georgian Universities: Subtle Shifts That Deliver Real Impact

Energy-saving green nudges are among the most widespread and effective behavioral tools in environmental policy. Their core idea is simple: introduce changes in the physical or informational environment that guide people toward saving energy — without requiring major effort or limiting their freedom. In universities, such nudges may take the form of default eco-mode settings on devices, motion-activated lighting, or reminder messages encouraging users to switch off equipment when not in use.

This topic is especially relevant at the university level because campuses bring together knowledge, practice, and collective behavior. The shared daily experience of students and staff creates a unique opportunity — beyond academic learning, universities become laboratories for behavioral change. Energy-saving campaigns based on nudges don’t just reduce utility bills; they instill responsibility in students and shape long-term habits that they carry into their future lives and workplaces.

According to the Green Nudges Implementation in South Caucasus Universities report, energy-saving nudges are the most widely implemented among Georgian universities. Every surveyed institution reported at least one energy-saving measure in place. The most common actions are switching to energy-efficient lighting and setting devices to eco-mode. Less frequent, however, are more advanced interventions, such as smart electricity meters, motion sensors, or promoting natural ventilation over air conditioning.

Interestingly, universities tend to rely more on administratively controlled nudges — like installing energy-saving equipment — than on user-involved behavioral nudges, such as encouraging people to switch off devices manually or regulate heating. Still, the data shows that the combination of both types leads to better results: structural interventions provide the foundation, while behavioral nudges foster a culture.

Financial limitations remain a key obstacle. Many universities are unable to invest in broader technological upgrades like solar panels or smart systems. At the same time, administrative barriers are relatively rare — suggesting that willingness exists, and the issue lies more in mobilizing resources.

Globally, there are many successful examples. At the University of Cambridge, students participate in competitions to see who can reduce energy use most effectively in dormitories — adding a gamified element to behavioral nudging. Stanford University uses automated systems that power down unused rooms. The National University of Singapore combines LED lighting, sensors, and visual prompts to build an energy-saving culture.

In Georgia, universities have already taken initial steps. Energy-efficient lights are widely used, many campuses have devices set to eco-mode by default, and a few universities are experimenting with motion-sensor systems. Still, this is just the beginning. The most transformative opportunities lie in practical, campaign-based actions — such as student challenges, visual reminders in shared spaces, creative signage, or incorporating energy efficiency into class projects.

One of the key strengths of energy-saving nudges is that they don’t require constant supervision — many work automatically or require a one-time setup. At the same time, they help form subconscious habits: if a student learns why they’re switching off a device today, they might do it again tomorrow — and that’s the essence of behavioral change.

Well-designed green nudges, especially when paired with practice-focused campaigns, offer universities not just cost savings, but a chance to position themselves as environmentally responsible institutions. When learning and action come together, change happens — and it can start with one of the simplest acts of all: saving energy.

Find the full report about Caucasus region here.